MATRIXSYNTH: Thursday, January 23, 2025

Thursday, January 23, 2025

NAMM 2025: ESI Xsynth Derived From the CME XKey 25

"More than just an audio interface": Bitwig launches its first hardware product at NAMM 2025

video upload by MusicRadar Tech

"German DAW-maker Bitwig has revealed its very first hardware product - Bitwig Connect 4/12. Ostensibly a 4-in and 12-out CV and MIDI-enabled audio interface, Bitwig states that its debut hardware product is 'far more than just an audio interface'… We caught up with them at NAMM 2025 to find out more."

Introducing Bitwig Connect 4/12

video uploads by Bitwig

via Bitwig

Bitwig Connect 4/12

More Than An Audio Interface
Bitwig Connect 4/12 is a class-compliant, 4‑in/12‑out CV- and MIDI‑enabled audio interface with monitor- and DAW-control functionalities and a unique Bitwig Mode.

Your Ultimate Studio Sidekick
Connect is a three-in-one audio/MIDI interface, monitor and DAW controller. Six mode buttons allow its 360°, touch-sensitive dial to adjust interface parameters or control software. It can set input gain, regulate the volume levels for two sets of monitors and your headphones, or even move the playhead and control any Bitwig Studio parameter with exceptional resolution.

The front panel gives you immediate visual feedback, with accurate input and output meters and a ring of 32 RGB LEDs around the dial to visualize parameter values and automation data. Plus, gain settings are accessible and saved within Bitwig Studio, so you can pick up right where you left off next time you open it.

CV Connects the Best of Both Worlds
With two DC-coupled inputs and four outputs easily accessible via 3.5 mm minijacks directly on the front panel, Connect is a superior choice for musicians with CV-enabled hardware. That means it goes both ways: To external devices from Bitwig Studio or other programs, and from hardware sequencers and modulation signals into the software realm.

Thanks to factory calibration, Connect plays pitch-perfect and without offset with Bitwig Studio right out of the box. And since jacks can also be used for audio signals, they can act as additional ins and outs for line-level signals, making them useful to all types of users.

Bring Bitwig Studio to Life
Connect's unique Bitwig Mode puts Bitwig Studio at your fingertips with DAW controller functionalities. Seamless integration makes writing automation, fine-tuning settings, and navigating the timeline in Bitwig Studio with Connect's main dial intuitive and precise. Get quick access to any control with the high-resolution dial by hovering over it with your cursor, and lock a selected parameter to Connect by double-tapping. The LED ring indicates its current task by matching the color of the parameter or track in Bitwig Studio so you'll never get lost.

You can find additional details at https://www.bitwig.com/connect/

The New MiniKorg 700Sm & Handytraxx Turntables at NAMM 2025

video upload by Reverb

"Korg brought it at NAMM 2025. Fess showed us the MiniKorg 700Sm, a slightly smaller version and reissue of the legendary MiniKorg 700S. It sounded massive and brings a really classic '70s monophonic synth vibe. Next, Fess showed us the new line of Handytraxx turntables."

Read more on Reverb

Craig Padilla - Solina Movement 5 (ARP Solina String Ensemble and Source Audio Pedals Improvisation)

video upload by Craig Padilla

"This is the epic final track from the ambient album 'SOLINA' by Craig Padilla. This improvised spacemusic performance was captured live on three cameras, performed on an ARP SE-IV Electronic Music Synthesizer using COLLIDER and LUNAR effects pedals by Source Audio which run through a long decaying looper plug-in called ElotTronix XL. Everything that you see and hear was performed live in the moment on this classic synthesizer from the 70's without any overdubs.

The ARP SE-IV String Ensemble is a classic synthesizer that was used on many albums by a variety of artists throughout the 70's. Its unique warm sound combined with the right effects makes it inspiring and fun to play."

Stylophone CPM DS-2 Analog Drone Synth, Korg SQ-1, Korg NTS-1 Dirty Jam 01/23/2025

video upload by I Love Cats and Synths

"In this jam I get down and dirty with the Stylophone CPM DS-2 analog drone synth. I also sequence it via CV from the Korg SQ-1 and add ensemble, delay and reverb from the Korg NTS-1."

NAMM 2025: Behringer's BX1 - DX1 And CS80 Together

video upload by sonicstate

"Behringer are back at NAMM with a bang, and showed us a prototype of their BX1 synth a 32 voice mashup of the legendary DX-1 with CS80 filters, VCA and envelopes. It also has effects, though there are not implemented yet.

Expected next year at a price as yet unspecified though, it"

#NAMM 2025: Massive modular from Synthesizers.com

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We get a tour of the massive modular system presented by synthesizers.com at NAMM 2025. Synthesizers.com creates all-original 5U analog modules for a unique library and system."

Waldorf Iridium ~ Gliese 445 ~ Outer Space

video upload by Ebotronix

Waldorf Iridium,
Intuitive Instruments Exquis,
Arp Odyssey,
Yamaha FS1R, MCS 2 , 2x FC 7 ,
Roland J 6,
Doepfer R2m Ribbon Controller, A174-2, A185-2, A 156,
Tunefish Modular ,2x Ornament and Crime,Shades,
Erica Synths Pico T-G, ( Trigger ~ Gate Converter),
Flame Q Slider,
Strymon Big Sky MX, controlled by,
ATO Faderbank 16 n , with Midi CC,
Bastle Bestie,
3 Voice Diatonic Bebob Harmonic Minor Scale 0,2,3,5,7,8,10,11,
23.01.2025
vid # 2462

Dualchord Sounds 1

video upload by XOR Electronics

"Finally the long awaited Dualchord Expander has been released. Being twice a four voice oscillator = 8 oscillators = 32 simultaneous waveforms it is your perfect generator of mono and paraphonic sounds. Many extras like 8 LFOs, Stereo Dephase, Morph etc.
It integrates seamless into the #nerdseq ecosystem. The (stereo)sounds here are purely generated with it, no additional filters etc.
Available now!
More info as usual here:
http://www.xor-electronics.com
Nerdseq...not just a Tracker!"

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

Daisy13

video upload by gilleslacaud

"Another one...demo for the Hansy Synth Daisy"

See the Hansy Synth label below for more.

#NAMM 2025: The Godfather by Enjoy Electronics

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We are treated to a demo of The Godfather, a new Eurorack-compatible multi-channel audio process from Italy-based Enjoy Electronics. It was an offer we couldn't refuse.

The Godfather processes 4 separate audio channels, allowing you to mix, equalize, compress, saturate, filter, and add emphasizing effects."

Deft Audio Luma 1 and Luma "mu"

video upload by CatSynth TV

"An introduction to the Luma 1 from Deft Audio, a circuit-accurate reimplementation of Roger Linn's legendary LinnDrum. They are also introducing a Eurorack single-voice version of the Luma 1, the Luma μ ("Luma mu"). In addition to the original features of the LinnDrum, there are some enhancements including uploading ones own samples, and even editing via a online web app that connects directly to the instrument."

NAMM 2025: Deft Audio's LumaOne and Luma-Mu

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with Joe from Deft Audio, who shared insights into their latest product, the *LumaOne*. Joe explained that LumaOne is a meticulous recreation of the iconic LM-1 drum machine. Its original was notably influential in the '80s music scene, appearing in tracks by Human League and Prince. However, with only 500 units produced, it became difficult to find. Joe recounted his journey to revive its legacy, which began during the COVID period when a rare LM-1 came into his possession, allowing him to create an accurate clone using vintage components.

LumaOne combines the classic sound of the '80s with modern enhancements like LumaTools for custom sound editing and MIDI integration. Joe also introduced Luma-Mu, a Eurorack module derived from the LM-1's voice architecture, bringing its unique sound into the modular world. Both products offer hand-built craftsmanship with LumaOne retailing at $4,500."

NAMM 2025: A Look at Roland's Galaxias 1.5

video upload by sonicstate

"We caught up with Matt from Roland, who provided an overview of the latest iteration of Galaxis 1.5 at NAMM 2025. This version, launching next week, represents the essence of Roland Cloud as a super instrument encapsulating 50 years of Roland's legacy into a single plugin. Matt explained how Galaxis allows you to search 23,000 sounds across its interface, making it effortless to find the right sound without delving into every piece of hardware.

New features in version 1.5 include the ability to save and export scenes and custom set lists, along with two new effects: the Roland JC-120 and a new modulation delay.

He highlighted the plugin's capabilities like stacking layers called scenes and using macro controls for mapping multiple parameters. Each macro also features a dedicated LFO for enhanced sound manipulation. Galaxis 1.5 will be available at the end of January through the Roland Cloud Ultimate subscription."

NAMM 2025: KV331 SynthMaster 3.1 Update

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with Bulent from KV331 Audio, who introduced us to the latest SynthMaster 3.1 enhancements. Bolin explained two major updates: firstly, the capability to transform SynthMaster into a drum kit, allowing up to 128 patterns that can be customized and assigned to different keys. This feature supports both samples and synthesis, enabling the creation of diverse drum presets, including rich Middle Eastern rhythms.

Secondly, Bulent described the new vintage voice modifiers. These allow each voice's oscillator, envelope, and filter to have distinct vintage characteristics, emulating poly-analog synths with variable parameter discrepancies simulating classic analog behavior.

The SynthMaster 3.1 update is compatible with Mac and PC platforms, with iOS support expected by summer. This free update offers enhanced sonic possibilities across virtual analog, wavetable, granular, and other synthesis engines, providing extensive versatility."

NAMM 2025: Roland Juno-D Keyboards

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2025, Nick from Sonicstate caught up with Ed from Roland to discuss the updated Roland Juno-D series. Initially released in September, the Juno-D offers three variations: a 61-note synth, a 76-note synth action, and an 88-note piano action keyboard. It features the ZEN-Core sound engine, boasting 3,500 sounds that you can split and layer across seven parts. Additionally, there is a dedicated rhythm part, and the built-in pattern sequencer enhances creative capabilities.

Ed explained that the Juno-D utilizes PCM-based sounds and supports Roland Cloud and ZENOLOGY Pro for deeper sound editing. The Juno-D includes USB-C power, eliminating the need for AA batteries, and it utilizes USB-C for seamless computer connection without requiring drivers. The keyboard supports splitting and layering, with up to seven layers in super layer mode. It also includes a 64-step sequencer, built-in rhythms, and phrase pads for recording and playback. The model offers 256-note polyphony, making it versatile for live performances."

Melbourne Instruments ROTO-CONTROL: Motorized MIDI Controller for Software and Hardware

video upload by Melbourne Instruments

Press release follows:

Introducing ROTO-CONTROL, motorized MIDI controller for software and hardware

Following the debut success of their revolutionary analog synth NINA in 2023 and the hybrid polysynth DELIA in 2024, Melbourne Instruments announce ROTO-CONTROL, a motorized MIDI controller for software and hardware. Roto-Control brings Melbourne Instruments’ motorized knob technology to a MIDI controller in a powerful, portable, affordable tool for studio and live applications.

Roto-Control is now shipping. [check with dealers on the right for avialability]

Introducing a truly unique motorized MIDI controller, unlike anything seen before. Rethink software and hardware interactions via fully assignable motorized touch-sensitive knobs, user definable haptics for detailed control, high-res screens providing easy-to-read labels for every control, and internal memory with storage for over 8000 assignments. Powerful, compact, and portable, Roto-Control features three main modes of operation: MIX, PLUGIN and MIDI with Motion Recorder.

CLICK FOR MORE »

NAMM 2025: Roland V-Stage

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with David from Roland, who introduced us to the latest release, the *Roland V-Stage*. This all-in-one keyboard is tailored for keyboard enthusiasts, featuring dedicated sections for various sounds, including organ, acoustic piano, and dual synthesizers.

It supports quick operational functionality enhanced by multiple sound engines. The V-Piano section offers virtual piano capabilities utilizing modeling instead of sample-based methods, featuring brand new sounds like the upright V-Piano.

You can explore the Supernatural E-Piano, with its blend of sampling and modeling technologies, or delve into the virtual tone wheel organ, equipped with harmonic bars and advanced rotary effects. Additional features of the V-Stage include unlimited polyphony for organ and V-Piano, and a shared 256 voices for synthesizer parts. It also includes a USB-C audio/MIDI interface, effects section with over 90 types, and a microphone input fitting for stage performers. The V-Stage is now available in 76 and 88-key versions."

NAMM vs NEWS, & UPDATES

This is just a reminder on how the NAMM and NEWS labels for the site work.

You'll find labels at the bottom of posts. Click on them to filter posts on the site by the given label.

NAMM will take you to coverage of the event.

NEWS will take you to the first announcement post on new gear. You can click on the brand label for additional posts or search on the right for the name of the new gear.

UPDATES will take you to posts that have had updates since first going up.

Bookmark them or just look for them at the bottom of posts. P.S. If you scroll through posts to the last post you viewed, the only label you'd need to check is the UPDATES label.

Behringer DX1 Spotted at NAMM

At 2:09 in CatSynth TV's NAMM video here.

Rumor is it will have an analog filter as well.

A Yamaha DX1 with added analog filter.

Update: and a few pics via the interwebs:

Note the Anlog Multi-Mode Filter section.

Update2: It's the Behringer BX1.

CLICK FOR MORE »

CME Unveils the C2MIDI Pro: The MIDI Cable Redefined

Press release follows:

[Amsterdam, 23 January 2025] – CME is excited to announce the launch of the C2MIDI Pro, a revolutionary dual-purpose USB-C MIDI cable that also functions as a standalone MIDI filter, mapper, and router. Designed for musicians, producers, and engineers, the C2MIDI Pro delivers groundbreaking performance and precision, redefining what a MIDI cable can do.

Innovative Features:
Dual-Functionality: Operates as a USB MIDI Interface or a Smart MIDI Cable.
Future-Proof Performance: Powered by a cutting-edge 32-bit processor, it ensures ultra-accurate transmission with high-speed optocouplers and four times the standard processing speed.
Advanced MIDI Tools: Includes free UxMIDI Tools software (compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android) to configure the C2MIDI Pro as a filter, mapper, or router.
Universal Compatibility: Works seamlessly with macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, and Chrome OS.
Ultimate Precision: Guarantees 100% exact transfer of dense MIDI data without latency, jitter, or dropouts.

“The C2MIDI Pro combines innovation, precision, and ease of use in a single cable. It’s not just a MIDI cable; it’s a game-changing tool for every MIDI enthusiast,” said Zhao Yitian, CEO of CME.

The C2MIDI Pro is designed to meet the needs of the modern music industry. With its retractable USB-C plug, dual-color MIDI connectors, and seamless integration with any MIDI setup, it empowers users to explore their creativity without limits.

Visit CME CEO Zhao Yitian at Booth #10302 of the MIDI Association.

Availability
The C2MIDI Pro will be open for presale and shipping at the beginning of February 2025. MAP: US$ 29.99

For additional details, visit our website: https://www.cme-pro.com/c2midi-pro/"

CatSynth Live at NAMM 2025!

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We will open our NAMM 2025 coverage with a quick walk around the "keyboard and synth area" of the show floor. Get a feel for the scope and array of exhibitors, and share you thoughts on what offerings you would like to see us cover in our videos from the show 😻🎹📺"

Happy Nerding Resonator 4x

video upload by Happy Nerding

"4 voice Resonator added to the Shaper section"

NOVATION & GForce BASS STATION superPLUGIN (SOUNDS DEMO) - VST/ AU/ AAX

video upload by FutureMusic.es

"Novation surprises with GFORCE BASS STATION -a new collaborative softsynth based on the original hardware, and free for many users of the brand's keyboards

[ESP] Novation sorprende con GFORCE BASS STATION -un nuevo softsinte de colaboración basado en el hardware original, y gratis para muchos usuarios de teclados de la marca

Timeline
00:01 Intro: Electronic (Simon Galiffet)
02:09 Metal Dubstep (Zardonic)
03:05 Ambient (Jogging House - Bird Watch)
05:03 Cassette Chorus (Reverb Machine)
06:48 Garage (Olly B)
09:54 French House (Reverb Machine)
11:44 Electro (Alex Jann)
16:09 STEMS 1 - Tiny Melody (Square on Square)
16:29 STEMS 2 - Background Moods (Glass Chamber & Whale Sneeze)
16:49 STEMS 3 - High Freq Melody (Giants Fall)
17:18 STEMS 4 - No Arpeggiator (Whale Sneeze)
17:37 STEMS 5 - Bass (Rectangular Feels)
17:46 STEMS 6 - Accent (Square on Square)
17:56 Full Arrangement (no FX, as sent to the hardware mixer)
19:39 Outro"

Waldorf Quantum MK2 w/Adam B - 7 #synth #synthesizer #synthwave #synthpop #scifi #musik

video upload by Kraft Music

http://www.kraftmusic.com/

HAPAX 2.10 – NEW FEATURES

video upload by Squarp instruments

"In this video, we dive into the key features introduced in the latest 2.10 update of Hapax OS.

HapaxOS 2.10
January 23, 2025

Features
Fine-tune note length (hold a step with a note inside, click encoder, then rotate to edit the length)
Pitch of drum events can be transposed (hold a drum event, and transpose it)
Mono editing mode (in a POLY track, press 2ND+TRACK and enable MONO)
REC hard quantize (in REC settings, enable the quantize and hold+rotate this encoder to select if you want to keep the note OFF position, or keep the note original width)
STEP-INPUT REC mode (SH101 style) (press LIVE+STEP to enter this mode)
New ALGO: Shuffle (randomly rearrange notes in several ways)
FX Arpeggiator : new hard-sync mode
FX Randomizer : new parameter "base chance on note velocity"
Looper: auto-length can be set to 1 step (in addition to 1 bar)
Autom mode: when holding a step to edit its value, you can now reset the value to default by holding the encoder
Chord Mode: modifiers saved per track
Chord Mode: pressing a modifier retriggers the chord
Chord Mode: Relatch mode added
New SETTING : pedal = BPM
New SETTING : cv out type = HZ/V
New SETTING : default PATTERN TRIG mode (FREE or RESTART)

CLICK FOR MORE »

The Manually Sliced Case for Elektron Digitakt and Digitone

video upload by LaVern Winston

Manually Sliced Case Installation for Elektron Digitakt and Digitone

video upload by LaVern Winston

via WinstonsWork

"Behold, Winston's 'Manually Sliced' case for the Elektron Digitakt and Digitone I and II generations. I've painstakingly designed this with the sole purpose of safely removing as much unnecessary space as possible from the factory Elektron enclosures. This design brings you a 1 inch reduction from the front of the device, a more ergonomic angle, and added ventilation for style and peace of mind. Stay tuned for 2 vastly different case designs on the horizon.

Note: this case is not intended for the Elektron Syntakt

Note on Elektron's Factory Warranty: I stress that you make your own determination when it comes to the warranty, and whether you would like to do this modification yourself. You assume responsibility for your device while carrying out this modification."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Trilling eurorack module prototypes

video upload by Dirk de Bruin

"Sneak peek of the synthesizer modules that I’m working on. Find me on fb or ig (trilling_synths) for updates or early access to the kickstarter."

Trilling synth modules test

video upload by Dirk de Bruin

Netcon

video upload by Memetune Studio

"A short vintage video of some vintage modular synths, networked together in the old-style way

Emu 2000 Series
Modcan A-Series
Serge Paperface
ARP Tonus 2500"

VCV LFO \ Improvised Patch Tutorial

video upload by Omri Cohen

"You can also find this patch, along with many others, available on my Patreon page - / 120531082

00:00 - Introduction
00:22 - Modulation
11:19 - Complex modulation
23:30 - Pitch sequences
33:45 - As a voice
37:29 - Reset \ Drum voice"

A Quiet Day - A modular ambient piece

video upload by Audiorial

"I don't often publish pure jams like this, but I've been asked quite a few times bout that so I decided to set all things up and do an ambient work.

this jam features :
Bastl Pizza
Bastl Waver
Bastl Neo Trinity
Doepfer A-124-2 Filter
Doepfer A-140 2
Michigan Synth Work Monsoon
QU-Bit Data Bender
ALM Cizzle
ALM MFX
XAOC Zagrzeb
An yet to be released module from an european maker
ADDAC SYSTEM Case"

#Jamuary 23rd 2025 - "Awkward Assemby" ft. Sky Barstow

video upload by Captain Credible

"Another one with the legendary Sky Barstow playing counterfeit trumpets on the #microfreak while #miku shouts at us through bendy pipes. #jamuary2025 #polyendtracker #rolands1"

Gakken DSX-39 Pocket Miku as well.

JAMUARY 2025 #23 - FREAKS I

video upload by FL3SHB4CK

"Happy new modular year!

Bean-Jelly driving this patch, Battering Ram doing kick and bass, Noiswasp, freaking noises and tones, and Beads, granular stuff and reverb.

Battering ram
Noiswasp
Bean jelly
Beads
AHH, diff-rect, Noise, Quadratt, Line out

4U 50hp recorded live into Syntakt reverb and delay"